Pick up device with locking mechanism and leverage action trigger

ABSTRACT

This invention provides hand operated portable devices for grasping and manipulation of objects as well as methods of their use.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of, and priority to, U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/707,689 filed Aug. 12, 2005, entitled “Pick Up Devicewith Locking Mechanism and Leverage Action Trigger.” Such priorapplication is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for allpurposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to hand operated portable devices forgrasping and manipulation of objects. More specifically, the inventioncomprises devices for grasping and manipulation of objects, e.g., bypersons with limited physical ability due to age, weakness, or the like,and/or for grasping and manipulation of objects out of normal/easy reachof persons.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many persons need the ability to grasp and manipulate objects that arenormally out of their reach or that would otherwise be inconvenient ordifficult to reach. For example, picking up objects on the ground or onhigh shelves can often be problematic. Such needs are even greater forpersons having limited physical ability (e.g., due to age or infirmity).Such persons can have limited gripping ability or hand strength or canhave limited bending or stretching ability, thus, leading to greaterneed for help in picking up or reaching objects.

While a number of devices have been developed to help inreaching/picking up objects, such prior work has been lacking in anumber of areas. For example, such devices typically include a directratio between the distance moved of a trigger/handle and the distancemoved of a gripping means. Thus, a large hand movement would often beneeded to completely grasp small objects, etc. Also, such devicestypically require constant pressure to keep the object grasped withinthe device. The present invention addresses the above and other issuesand provides novel devices for grasping and/or manipulation of objects.The current invention also provides additional advantages which will beapparent upon reading of the description, claims, and figures herein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In various aspects, the current invention comprises a device forgrasping and/or picking up objects. In certain embodiments the devicecomprises a head region having two opposing jaw members with each memberhaving a proximal end (i.e., an end closer to the handle end and closerto the user of the device when it is held by the handle) and a distalend (i.e., the end further from the handle), and each of which jawmembers is operably attached at a pivot point to a jaw base assembly.Such attachment, thus, allows movement of each jaw member around itspivot point. In such embodiments, the proximal end of both jaw membersoperably interacts with a jaw actuator within the jaw base assembly(typically by inserting into the actuator). In turn, the jaw actuator isoperably connected to an actuator rod and a jaw actuator spring (whichhelps in holding open the jaw members, e.g., when the trigger is notbeing squeezed or the when it is locked). Such embodiments also comprisean elongated hollow tube region that encloses a cable spring and cablethat are operably connected to the actuator rod. Also, such embodimentscomprise a handle region comprising a handle body, a latch mechanism(e.g., latching lever, latch cable, latch, latching spring, etc.), and atrigger grip with a linkage lever that has the cable operably coupled toits bottom (i.e., a leverage action trigger). In such embodiments, bysqueezing the trigger the linkage lever can be caused to extenddownwards in the handle body, which pulls the cable and the cable springproximally in the handle body and in the tube region. The movement ofthe cable and cable spring thus causes the jaw actuator rod and jawactuator to also move proximally, which in turn, draws in the proximalend of each jaw member and causes each jaw member to move around itspivot point so that the distal ends of the opposing jaw members movetowards one another.

In certain embodiments, the devices of the invention have jaw membersthat comprise a textured inner surface layer and/or which comprise a padarea at their proximal tips.

In some embodiments of the device, the jaw actuator spring exertspressure against the proximal end of the jaw actuator thus causing thedistal ends of the jaw members to pivot away from each other as the jawactuator is pushed distally. Such pressure helps in keeping the jawmembers open (extended away from each other) when the trigger/linkagelever is not squeezed and/or locked.

In various embodiments of the device, the latch mechanism comprises aspring loaded latch that is operably attached to a latch cable, which,in turn, is operably coupled to a latching lever. The latch mechanism,when set (or engaged), reversibly locks the trigger/linkage lever,thereby reversibly locking the jaw members at a desired position.Additionally, in such devices, expansion of the cable spring (e.g., whenpressure is applied on it from the trigger/linkage lever via the cable)allows the trigger to be squeezed further in, even when the jaw memberscannot move closer together (e.g., when an object is being grasped bythe device). Such expansion of the cable spring thus allows the triggerto move far enough into the handle body so that if the latching lever isset, the spring loaded latch will engage and prevent the jaw membersfrom opening

In the devices herein, movement of the trigger causes a movement of thejaw members over a greater distance than that moved by the trigger(assuming that the jaws are allowed to freely move and are not blocked,etc.).

Also, in some devices herein the handle body comprises a palm rest areathat comprises a thermoplastic rubber and/or thermoplastic elastomeroverlay on the handle body. Such rest area is located so as to improveuser comfort and performance by, e.g., reducing slipping, adding indurability and increasing aesthetics.

In certain embodiments, the head region of the device can be rotated inrelation to the tube region, and secured in one or more orientations,e.g., by the interaction of fluted or grooved areas within the tuberegion and raised protuberances on the inner lumen of the proximalopening of the jaw base assembly.

In other aspects the invention comprises methods of grasping and/orpicking up an object. Embodiments of such methods comprise situating twoopposing angled jaw members of a device around the object, each of whichjaw members comprises a proximal end and a distal end, and each of whichjaw members is operably attached at a pivot point to a jaw base assembly(which allows movement of each jaw member around its pivot point). Insuch methods, the proximal end of both jaw members operably interactswith a jaw actuator (within the jaw base assembly) that is operablyconnected to an actuator rod. The device used in such method embodimentsalso comprises an elongated hollow tube region, enclosing a cable springand cable that are operably connected to the actuator rod. Additionally,the devices in such method embodiments also comprise a handle regioncomprising a handle body, a latch mechanism, and a trigger grip having alinkage lever, wherein the cable is operably coupled to the bottom ofthe linkage lever. In various embodiments, after the object is situated,the trigger is squeezed causing the linkage lever to extend downwards inthe handle body. Such extension causes the cable and cable spring tomove proximally and causes the jaw actuator rod and jaw actuator to moveproximally. The movement of the jaw actuator, in turn, draws in theproximal end of each jaw member which causes each jaw member to movearound its pivot point and causes the distal ends of the opposing jawmembers to move towards one another and thus grasp and/or pick up theobject.

In yet other aspects, the invention comprises methods of grasping and/orpicking up an object by situating two opposing jaw members of a devicearound the object (which members are operably attached at pivot pointsto a base assembly and to a jaw actuator) and squeezing a trigger of thedevice (which trigger moves a linkage lever and which linkage lever isoperably coupled, directly or indirectly, to the opposing jaw members),thereby moving the jaw members towards one another and grasping theobject.

These and other devices and methods of the invention will become morefully apparent when the following detailed description is read inconjunction with the accompanying figures and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 displays a perspective view of an exemplary pick up device of theinvention.

FIG. 2 displays a transverse cut-away view of an exemplary pick updevice of the invention with the head of the device rotated vertically.

FIG. 3 displays an expanded view of the grasping end (or head region) ofan exemplary device of the invention.

FIG. 4 displays a transverse cut-away view of the grasping end of anexemplary device of the invention.

FIG. 5 displays a sagittal cut-away view of the grasping end of anexemplary device of the invention.

FIG. 6 displays an expanded view of the handle, trigger, linkage lever,and latching mechanism of an exemplary device of the invention.

FIG. 7 displays a transverse partial cut-away view of the handle,trigger, linkage lever, and latching mechanism of an exemplary device ofthe invention.

FIG. 8 displays a perspective view of a transverse partial cut-away ofthe handle, trigger, linkage lever, and latching mechanism of anexemplary device of the invention.

FIG. 9 displays a side view of the trigger, latching mechanism, linkagelever, and bottom plate isolated from other elements of the handle.

FIG. 10 displays a perspective view of the handle, trigger, linkagelever, and latching mechanism of an exemplary pick up device of theinvention.

FIG. 11 displays a perspective view of the latching mechanism of anexemplary pick up device of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before describing the present invention in detail, it is to beunderstood that this invention is not limited to particular embodiments,which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that theterminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only, and is not necessarily intended to be limiting. Asused in this specification and the appended claims, terms in thesingular and the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, forexample, reference to “a pick up device,” also includes a plurality ofpick up devices, and the like.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in theaccompanying figures. A general perspective view is shown in FIG. 1.FIGS. 2 through 11 further detail various embodiments. For purposes ofdescription and illustration, pick up devices of the invention, e.g.,pick up device 100, as can be in FIG. 1, can roughly be considered inthree sections. Thus, the device in FIG. 1 comprises a head regioncomprising two opposing jaws, Region A; a tube (or shaft) region, RegionB, comprising an elongated tube or hollow structure; and a handleregion, Region C, comprising a handle, a trigger, and a locking (orlatching) mechanism. While the elements in each section are generallydiscussed separately herein, it will be appreciated that suchdescription should not be taken as limiting upon either the devices oruses/operation of the invention or upon the interaction or connectivityof the elements of the invention.

Head Region

At the distal end of the device (i.e., the end typically furthest fromthe user when held by the handle) grasping jaw members 120, of thedevice oppose one another and form a modified “U” shape when open (e.g.,when an object is not being grasped) and form a five-sided or pentagonalshape when closed (e.g., when an object is being grasped or when the jawmembers are brought together without grasping an object). As explainedmore fully below, such shape can aid in grasping a wide range ofdifferently sized objects. Additionally, the jaw shape and arrangementof the jaws (as well as the surface layers, pads, etc.) adds aestheticinterest to the device (e.g., through shape and optionally throughcolors and/or textures of the various components, contrast incolor/texture between various areas, etc. The outer surfaces of the jawmembers can optionally be ridged or braced with one or more ribs or thelike, e.g., in order to strengthen the members. In certain embodiments,the jaw members are constructed all of one piece. The jaw members canalso comprise an overmolded inner layer, or inner surface layer. Seebelow. In certain embodiments, the distal end of each jaw membercomprises end region or tip 111, which optionally can be attached to themain body of the jaw member via flexible hinge 110. In otherembodiments, the tip is attached or connected to the main body of thejaw member via a nonflexible region, i.e., such embodiments do notcomprise a flexible hinge at the region where the tip and the main jawbody intersect.

In certain embodiments, the inner surfaces of the jaw members cancomprise inner surface layer 115 e.g., to aid in gripping of objects.The texture of the inner surface layer can be dimpled, roughened,ridged, striated, can comprise bumps or raised dots, or can comprise anyother three-dimensional surface texture. In certain embodiments, theinner surface layer comprises a flexible or malleable/conformablesurface. Thus, the inner surface layer can also conform at leastpartially to an object being grasped and thereby help prevent slippage,etc. whether or not the surfaces are “textured.” The inner surfacelayers can be composed of material having a high coefficient of frictionto aid in gripping of objects. Additionally, the inner surface layerscan comprise one or more coatings to aid in gripping of objects. Suchcoatings can also comprise those having high coefficients of friction orthe like.

In certain embodiments, the jaw members can be comprised without aninner surface layer. In other words, in such embodiments, the innersurfaces of the jaw members themselves grasp objects and the jaw memberscan be textured (e.g., dimpled, etc.) and/or coated. Thus, in suchembodiments, the jaw members can be textured on their inner surfacesrather than being mated with (e.g., through overmolding or adhesion)another inner surface layer of textured material.

When the jaw members are fully closed (e.g., when an object is beinggrasped or when the device is closed without grasping an object), padareas 105, can meet one another over substantially their entiresurfaces. In some embodiments, the pad areas can optionally meet/touchone another at their distal ends (e.g., when the jaws are broughttogether lightly or partially) and over substantially their entire areaswhen the jaws are brought together completely or more fully. It will beappreciated that the tips and pads of the jaw members allow grasping ofquite small objects and that the tips and/or the pads can optionallyflex and/or conform at least partially to the shape of objects beinggrasped. In certain embodiments, the pad area is continuous with, and/orpart of, the inner surface layer of the jaw member and can be composedof the same material. In certain embodiments, such material (i.e., whichcomposes the pad and/or the inner surface layer of the jaw member) canbe overmolded onto the jaw members, thus, forming one solid piece foreach jaw member.

As stated, in certain embodiments, the inner surfaces of the jaw membersand/or the pads can comprise one or more overmolded pieces of materialthat comprise the inner surface layer. In other embodiments, the innersurface layers of the jaw members and/or the pads can comprise amaterial (e.g., comprising an inner surface layer, e.g., a texturedsurface), which is attached (e.g., via glue/adhesive) to the jaw memberrather than overmolded.

The jaw members can optionally be constructed from a number ofmaterials. In certain embodiments, the jaw members comprise Lexan®(available from General Electric, Fairfield, Conn.), while in otherembodiments, the jaw members can comprise Delrin® (available from E.I.du Pont de Nemours and Company, Wilmington, Del.). In certainembodiments, the jaw members can comprise metal (e.g., aluminum,anodized aluminum, steel, stainless steel, magnesium, magnesiumalloy(s), iron, metal alloys, and/or combinations thereof), plastic(e.g., a polycarbonate, a polyvinyl), a thermoplastic, a thermoplasticrubber, a thermoplastic elastomer, etc., ceramic, polymer, resin, wood,or any combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the inner surfacelayers of the jaw members, and/or the pads, can comprise the samematerial as the jaw members or they can comprise a different materialthan the main body of the jaw members. In particular embodiments, theinner surface layers comprise one or more of: a thermoplastic rubber(TPR), a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a silicon rubber, or a rubber.The composition of the inner surface layers and/or the pads isoptionally chosen for durability, gripping ability (e.g., a “no-slip”surface), aesthetic interest, etc. In certain embodiments, the innersurface layer and/or pads are textured and/or colored (optionally thesame as other parts of the device such as the trigger, palm area on theback of the handle, etc. (e.g., to add additional aesthetic interest).In some embodiments the inner surface layers and/or the pads compriseLexan, Delrin, metal (e.g., aluminum, anodized aluminum, steel,stainless steel, magnesium, magnesium alloy(s), iron, metal alloy(s),and/or combinations thereof), plastic (e.g., a polycarbonate, apolyvinyl), a thermoplastic, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplasticrubber, etc., ceramic, polymer, resin, wood, or any combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, the main body of the jaw members comprisesLexan while the inner surface layers and the pads comprise TPR or TPE.

In certain embodiments, the jaws can open to a maximum distance of atleast 6 inches or more from tip to tip (e.g., from tip of pad to tip ofpad), to at least 5.5 inches or more from tip to tip, to at least 5inches or more from tip to tip, to at least 4 inches or more from tip totip, to at least 3 inches or more from tip to tip, to at least 2 inchesor more from tip to tip, or to at least 1 inch or more from tip to tip.

As can be seen in FIG. 3, proximal ends 305 of the jaw members (i.e.,the ends closest to the user when the device is held by the handle)overlap one another within jaw actuator (or clevis), 205. The proximalends of the jaw members enter through side openings 315 in the jawactuator. The jaw actuator keeps the proximal ends of the jaw memberssecure and in the correct orientation. The jaw members rotate aroundpivot points 300 which are also points 125 where bolts, screws, or otherfasteners secure and/or position the pivoting jaw members to the jawbase assembly.

The jaw actuator and the proximal ends of the jaw members are enclosedwithin jaw base assembly 130. The jaw base assembly comprises twoopposing sides 133 (shown as roughly triangular in the attachedfigures), separated by enclosing sidewall(s) 132. In certainembodiments, the jaw base assembly is molded or fashioned out of onepiece of material and is not constructed from smaller pieces. In someembodiments, the jaw base assembly can be composed of separate top,bottom, and sidepieces which are secured together (e.g., via glue,adhesive, fasteners, melting, welding, spot welding, etc.)

The jaw actuator holding the proximal ends of the jaw members isattached, via jaw actuator cap 200 to jaw actuator rod 215 which, inturn, is surrounded by jaw actuator spring 210. Both the spring (e.g., acompression spring) and the rod are housed within the interior of thejaw base assembly. However, in some embodiments, the proximal end of thejaw actuator rod and/or the jaw actuator spring can extend into thehollow tube region of the device. See below. The distal end of thespring pushes against the jaw actuator (e.g., by pushing against the jawactuator cap), while the proximal end of the spring pushes against stopplate 400 within the jaw base assembly. See FIG. 4. Because the springpushes against both the jaw actuator and the stop plate, it forces thejaw members apart (i.e., away from one another) when the device is notbeing triggered (i.e., when the trigger is not squeezed and/or latched).See below.

While, as shown by the dashed motion lines in FIG. 1, the jaw memberscan move towards or away from one another, it will additionally beappreciated that in certain embodiments, the entire head region of thedevice can be rotated or pivoted around the elongated tube. See below.Such action can allow proper orientation to grasp specific objects. CfFIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

In various embodiments, one or more of the jaw actuator, jaw baseassembly, jaw actuator cap, jaw actuator rod, and spring can be composedof, e.g., metal (such as aluminum, anodized aluminum, steel, stainlesssteel, magnesium, magnesium alloy(s), iron, metal alloy(s), and/orcombinations thereof), plastic (e.g., a polycarbonate, a polyvinyl, athermoplastic, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic rubber, Lexan,Delrin, etc.), ceramic, polymer, resin, wood, or any combinationsthereof. In certain embodiments, the jaw actuator, jaw base assembly,jaw actuator cap, and jaw actuator rod are comprised of plastic(s)(e.g., Lexan and/or Delrin), while the spring is comprised of a metal(e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, anodized aluminum, iron, magnesium,magnesium alloy(s), steel, metal alloy(s), and/or combinations thereof).In some embodiments, the jaw actuator, jaw actuator cap, jaw actuatorrod, and spring are comprised of metal (such as aluminum, anodizedaluminum, steel, stainless steel, magnesium, magnesium alloy(s), iron,metal alloy(s), and/or combinations thereof) while the jaw base assemblyis comprised of plastic (e.g., Lexan and/or Delrin).

The jaw actuator rod 215 is attached to a cable spring 220 (e.g., anextension, or tension, spring) which traverses through tube or hollowstructure 135 and is attached to cable (or in some embodiments, rod,strap, articulated strap, wire, chain, or other similar cable-likeelement) 225. In various embodiments, the cable spring can comprisedifferent lengths, can comprise different spring stiffness, and cancomprise different ratios of spring length to cable and/or actuator rodlength (e.g., in some embodiments the spring traverses ˜¼ of the lengthof the tube while the cable, and optionally part of the jaw actuatorrod, traverses ˜¾ length of the tube, etc.).

Tube Region

As can be seen in the Figures, hollow tube 135 connects the head regionof the device with the handle region of the device. In variousembodiments, the ends of such elongated tube mate with proximal end 131of the jaw base assembly and with distal end 144 of the handle. Incertain embodiments, the ends of the tube are inserted within the jawbase assembly and the handle. The ends of the jaw base assembly and thehandle can have specific diameters at such mating points so that thetube fits snugly therein. The tube can be held in place with the jawbase assembly and the handle by friction, by glue or adhesive, by spotwelds, by crimping, by screws, bolts, clamps, or the like, or by anycombination thereof. The tube can be of different lengths and diametersin different embodiments, thus, changing the overall length of the pickup device in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the tube/shaftcomprises a telescoping shaft, thus, allowing the shaft to be adjustedin length for that embodiment (e.g., similar to a telescope, etc.). Insome such telescoping embodiments, the flutes in the shaft can aid instability and orientation of the telescoping pieces. In variousembodiments, the elongated tube is constructed from or comprises, e.g.,aluminum, anodized aluminum, steel, stainless steel, iron, magnesium,magnesium alloy, or various metallic alloys, plastic (e.g., apolycarbonate, a polyvinyl, a thermoplastic, a thermoplastic elastomer,a thermoplastic rubber, Lexan, Delrin, etc.), ceramic, polymer, resin,or any combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the tube comprisesanodized aluminum, while in other certain embodiments, the tubecomprises Lexan and/or Delrin.

In certain embodiments, the tube comprises flutes or grooved areas 330,which can, e.g., add structural integrity and/or strength to the tubeand/or help guide (in some embodiments) the internal cable spring and/orcable. Such fluting also can add decorative interest and can in certainembodiments, aid in rotation of the head region around the shaft.

In certain embodiments, the inner surface of the proximal end of the jawbase assembly (e.g., 450 in FIG. 4) can comprise one or more ridges,knobs, dots, or other similar raised protuberances (e.g., ridge 470 inFIG. 4) that rest within the flute(s) in the shaft. Such ridges, etc.can act to stabilize the head region in a particular orientation inrelation to the shaft. Furthermore, certain embodiments can comprisemultiple ridges in the jaw base assembly mated with multiple fluteswithin the shaft, while some embodiments can comprise a greater numberof flutes than of ridges. In certain embodiments, the jaw base assemblyand the shaft are not permanently affixed (e.g., they are not welded,glued together, etc.), but rather they are held together by, e.g., thepresence and connections of the internal mechanism (e.g., the jawactuator, jaw actuator rod, cable spring), the friction between the tubeand the jaw base assembly, etc. Thus, since the cable spring allows playin length, the head region can be pulled slightly out (e.g., away fromthe shaft) so that the ridge(s) within the flute(s) stabilizing the headregion are removed from the flute(s). Thus, the head region can then berotated and then moved back towards the shaft so that the ridge(s)re-enter different flute(s) and stabilize the rotated head region in anew and different orientation in relation to the shaft/handle. It willbe appreciated that some embodiments comprise a plurality of flutes andridges thus allowing a fine degree of control over head rotation. Insome such embodiments, the actuator rod interacts with the jaw actuatorcap such that they does not prohibit rotation of the head region (e.g.,the activator cap freely circles around the jaw actuator rod, etc.).

Again, within tube 135, cable spring 220, is attached at its distal endto jaw actuator rod 215. Such attachment can be by hook arrangement orby crimping, clipping, welding, adhesive/glue, or any other appropriatemethod. In some embodiments, the cable spring and the jaw actuator rodcan be connected through one or more intermediary(ies) (e.g., anothercable, etc.) At its proximal end, the cable spring is attached to cable(or in some embodiments strap, articulated strap, wire, chain, or othersimilar cable-like member) 225. The cable, which traverses the proximalportion of main tube 135 enters handle 145 of the device and interactswith the lever linkage. See below. In various embodiments, the cablespring and cable comprise stainless steel, while in other embodiments,the cable spring and cable comprise a metal, aluminum, anodizedaluminum, steel, magnesium, magnesium alloy(s), iron, or various alloys,nylon, and/or combinations thereof.

Handle Region

As can be seen in the accompanying figures, the handle region (region Cin FIG. 1) comprises a number of features. The handle itself comprises aform designed to be grasped by the hand of a user. In certainembodiments, handle body 145 is comprised from a single piece ofmaterial, with handle cap 155, latch lever 140, and trigger grip (or“trigger”) 150, being attached to the single body of the handle. Suchsingle piece construction aids in strength and stability of the device.However, in other embodiments, the handle body can be constructed from anumber of pieces, e.g., two mirrored pieces which are fitted togetherand to which are attached the handle cap, latch lever, and trigger grip,etc. In some embodiments, the handle comprises a hook or ring feature toallow the device to be hung or to have a cord/lanyard attached to thedevice (e.g., to allow the device to be hung). Thus, ring 165 is shownin the figures.

Trigger grip 150, (also referred to as trigger 150) in certainembodiments, comprises two mirrored pieces which are joined together(e.g., by adhesives, temperature setting or melting, friction forces,etc.) or are placed adjacent to one another, but not joined. Otherembodiments comprise trigger grips comprised of a single formed piece.In either case, such trigger grip is typically ergonomically shaped toallow for easy finger placement for the user and for aesthetic style.Thus, as can be seen from the figures, the trigger grip comprises raisedridges and depressions for finger placement. It will also be appreciatedthat the sides of the handle body (alternatively and/or in addition tothe trigger) can comprise ridges and other shapes to produce anergonomic grip. The trigger grip attaches to the handle body at a pivotpoint created by threading of latching lever shaft 230 through openingsin trigger grip pivot areas 615. When the trigger grip pivots from suchpoint, the base of the trigger grip slides into the body of the handlewhen the trigger is squeezed by a user. As will be appreciated, theinteraction of the handle and the trigger do not present sharp edges oropenings where a user's fingers could be pinched or injured. Asexplained further below, when the trigger grip is squeezed and movesinto the handle body, the latch and the linkage lever are moved as well.

Also attached to the handle body is latching lever 140 and latchinglever shaft 230. As mentioned, the latching lever shaft threads throughopenings in trigger grip pivot areas 615 and the handle body. Thelatching lever(s) are placed on one or both ends of the shaft (i.e., oneither one or both sides of the handle body). See below.

The handle cap is attached at the base of the handle body. The cap issecured to the base via screw 715, or similar fastener in variousembodiments. However, in other embodiments, the cap is attached to thehandle body by adhesives, temperature setting, friction forces, etc. andoptionally does not comprise a screw or the like. The handle capcomprises latch recess area 710 into which the latch fits when thedevice jaws are locked. See below.

In various embodiments, the handle body, handle cap, trigger grip, andlever latch are comprised of or comprise, e.g., metal, aluminum,anodized aluminum, steel, stainless steel, magnesium, magnesiumalloy(s), iron, metal alloy(s), plastic (e.g., a polycarbonate, apolyvinyl, a thermoplastic, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplasticrubber, Lexan, Delrin, etc.), ceramic, polymer, resin, or anycombinations thereof. In certain embodiments the handle body, handlecap, trigger grip, and lever latch are comprised of Lexan and/or Delrin.In yet other embodiments, the handle body, handle cap, trigger grip, andlever latch are comprised of Lexan and/or Delrin while palm rest area160 (and optionally the trigger grip) also comprises an overmolded layerof thermoplastic rubber or thermoplastic elastomer for improvedgripping, comfort, and/or aesthetics. In yet other embodiments, the palmrest on the back of the handle (and optionally the trigger grip)comprises a thermoplastic rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.

As can be seen in the figures, cable 225 and linkage lever 240 (upperlinkage) and 245 (lower linkage) (collectively, the leverage actionmechanism) are also comprised within the handle body. As statedpreviously, the cable is attached within the tube at its distal end tothe cable spring. The proximal end of the cable enters the handle body,rests upon roller 235 (which optionally encircles the latching levershaft and which is between 2 wings or walls of latching disc 275)traverses the length of the interior of the handle and attaches to thelower linkage lever 245 at attachment point 800. In some embodiments,the cable can rest directly upon lever shaft 230 rather than upon aroller such as roller 235. As can be seen from FIGS. 8 and 10, the cableis kept in place on the roller by sidewalls or wings of the latchingdisc. FIG. 8 shows half of the latching disc. Typical embodimentscomprise a corresponding mating wall of the latching disc. The latchingdisc is typically sandwiched between the trigger grip pivot areas. SeeFIGS. 8, 10, and 11. The linkage lever is moveably hinged at 630 (top)and 625 (middle), while free at end 645. In certain embodiments, thefree end of the lever moves within a track or groove within the handlebody or within the free space present within the handle body. Thus, thelever is movable when the trigger grip is squeezed. When the grip issqueezed, pressure is applied upon the lever, which is pushed backwardsand stretches out (e.g., free end 645 moves towards handle cap at baseof handle body), thus, pulling the attached cable (hence the trigger isa leverage action trigger). In certain embodiments, the joint betweenthe upper and lower linkages slides along slope 740 on the inner wall ofthe trigger, thereby producing a smooth action of pulling on the cable.FIG. 10 shows a three dimensional perspective of an embodiment of thelinkage lever wherein the lower linkage lever comprises two mated,mirrored parts, through which cable 225 traverses. The embodiment inFIG. 10 also comprises a linkage upper lever that optionally comprises asingle piece having a slot or opening through which the cable traverses.See FIGS. 10 and 6. Of course, in other embodiments, the linkage levercan comprise, e.g., 2 single pieces (rather than the doubled piecesshown in the current figures) that are hinged and have the cableattached to their lower end, etc.

Also within the handle body is the latching mechanism. The latchingmechanism comprises latching lever 140, latching lever shaft 230,latching disc 275, latching cable 610, latch spring 255, latch 260,latch stop plate 700, and latch recess area 710 (actually created byrecess within handle cap, but used in latching action). As mentionedpreviously, the latch lever(s) (or latching levers) are present on theexterior of the handle body. The latch lever(s) 140, either on one orboth sides of the body, can be positioned “off” or “on” by the usereither before, during, or after the trigger grip is squeezed (e.g., tograsp an object). In certain embodiments, the latch lever can be locked“on” and/or “off.” In other words, the latch lever when locked “on” willallow the latch to function when the trigger is squeezed beyond acertain point. See below. When the latch lever is “off” the latch willnot function even when the trigger is squeezed beyond the requireddistance. See below. In certain embodiments, the locking of the latchoccurs by turning or pushing latching lever 140 past a designated point.In some embodiments, the body of the handle comprises a ridge, bump, orother protuberance (optionally comprised of the same material as thehandle body) positioned within the motion range of lever 140. Thus, insome embodiments, when the lever is pushed up, it will be forced abovethe ridge by the action of the user. In such instances, the lever willcatch on the ridge which will prevent the lever from moving backdownwards. Thus, in such example, the lever will be in an “off” positionand therefore the latching mechanism will not be able to be engaged.

At the bottom end of latch 260 certain embodiments comprise a beveled orsloped edge. Such bevel/slope edge is on the side of the latch facingtowards handle cap 155, and allows for the latch to move more easily upand over the handle cap when the trigger is squeezed. Certain elementsof the handle cap also comprise a corresponding bevel/slope area 635 aswell.

In various embodiments, the latch spring, latch cable, and cablecomprise one or more metal (e.g., aluminum, anodized aluminum, steel,stainless steel, magnesium, magnesium alloy(s), iron, or various alloysand/or combinations thereof). In some embodiments, the latch spring,latch cable, and cable comprise stainless steel. In various embodiments,the latch lever, latch, latch lever shaft (also referred to as latchinglever shaft), latch stop plate, and latching disc comprise a metal(e.g., aluminum, anodized aluminum, steel, stainless steel, magnesium,magnesium alloy(s), iron, or various alloys and/or combinationsthereof), plastic (e.g., a polycarbonate, a polyvinyl, a thermoplastic,a thermoplastic rubber, a thermoplastic elastomer, etc.), ceramic,polymer, resin, wood, or any combinations thereof. In certainembodiments, the latch lever, latch, latch lever shaft, latch stopplate, and latching disc comprise Lexan and/or Delrin and the latchspring, (and optionally latch cable) comprise stainless steel. In someembodiments, the latch cable and/or the cable comprises nylon. In someembodiments, the latch cable and/or the cable comprises an articulatedstrap, strap, wire, chain, or other similar cable-like element

Exemplary Operation

The devices of the invention are capable of use in a number of ways andfor a number of methods. Thus, description of specific uses hereinshould not necessarily be taken as limiting. In certain embodiments, thedevice is held, via the handle within a user's hand, with the user'sfingers wrapped around trigger 150, and the user's palm against the backof the handle at palm rest 160. Again, as mentioned above, areas where auser holds the device can comprise material to help prevent slippage (aproblem of special concern with users who are elderly or who have poorgripping ability) and/or to present a decorative aspect (e.g., acontrasting color and/or texture). Thus, the palm rest at the back ofthe handle can comprise, e.g., an overmolded layer of rubber,thermoplastic rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, or the like. In someembodiments, the trigger can also comprise, thermoplastic elastomerand/or thermoplastic rubber (e.g., as an overmolded layer on, e.g.,Lexan, etc.). Some embodiments in the figures comprise a stippledappearance in regions that are optionally colored in various devices. Ofcourse, it will be appreciated that different embodiments can comprisedifferent colors/textures/patterns/etc. in different areas of thedevices in the different embodiments. Such colors, etc., can add to theaesthetically pleasing shape of the devices. In additional embodiments,the device can further comprise a forearm brace running from the handleback along the user's forearm to help support the device. Such bracesare especially useful for users having poor wrist strength. Also asmentioned above, the entire head of the device (i.e., region A inFIG. 1) can be rotated in various embodiments in order to produce theproper angle for grasping. See above.

Once the head is properly angled and the device is properly held, theuser typically squeezes trigger 150 in order to grasp an object.Squeezing the trigger pushes linkage lever 240/245 back and down withinthe handle (typically tracking along slope 740). The downward movementof the linkage lever pulls cable 225 (which is attached to the lowerlinkage lever at point 800) along with it. Cable 225, in turn, pulls oncable spring 220. Cable spring 220, optionally stretching during theaction, pulls on jaw actuator rod 215. The jaw actuator rod pulls on jawactuator 205 (e.g., by pulling on the jaw actuator cap) and thus pullsproximal ends 305 of the jaw members 120 back into the jaw base assemblywhile the distal ends of the jaw members and jaw pads 105, pivot and arepulled towards one another.

It will be appreciated that a wide range of different sized and/ordifferent shaped objects can be grasped by the device. Small objects canoptionally be grasped between the jaw pads on the end of the jaw memberswhile larger objects can be grasped between the pads or in the largerarea between the jaw members. As seen in the figures, the jaw membersare angled so that they encompass a wide opening between them. In someinstances, e.g., when an object to be grasped is large enough to requirethe jaw members to be fully opened, the trigger can still be pulled back(e.g., far enough to lock, see below) and pressure applied to grip theobject. In such instances, cable spring 220 will stretch to allowtrigger movement and applied pressure even without movement of the jawmembers (e.g., when the jaws are held to their greatest extension arounda large object). Of course, in some embodiments, the cable spring canstretch and aid in grasping/gripping of objects even when the jaws arenot fully extended.

As will be appreciated, in various embodiments, the jaw members can bemoved (e.g., closed) over a greater distance than the distance that thetrigger is moved. Such embodiments allow for use of the device to graspa wider range of objects than would otherwise be possible. In someembodiments, the trigger can be moved, e.g., ˜1.5 inches while the tipsof the jaw members close, e.g., ˜5, ˜5.5, or ˜6 inches (e.g., thedistance between them). In certain embodiments, such ratio between thedistance the trigger is squeezed (moved) and the distance the tips ofthe jaws move can comprise about 1.5:5, 1.5:5.5, 1.5:6, 1.5:6.5, 1:5,1:5.5, 1:6, 1:6.5, 0.5:5, 0.5:5.5, 0.5:6, 0.5:6.5, etc. In variousembodiments, the tips of the jaw members move a greater distance thanthe distance moved by the trigger.

Another feature of the device comprises a latching or locking system (alatching mechanism) which allows the jaw members to be fixed in place(e.g., while grasping an object). This feature is especially importantfor users who cannot maintain a constant grip pressure, thus allowingthem to grasp an object, lock the jaw members, and not have to keepapplying constant pressure on the trigger. In various embodiments, thelocking action can engage no matter the placement of the jaw members(e.g., jaws fully opened, jaws partially opened, jaws fully closed,etc.). To engage or disengage the locking (or latching) mechanism, whichcan be done before, during, or after grasping of an object, the usermoves latching lever 140. As stated previously, in various embodiments,the lever can be present on both sides of the handle body (see FIG. 10)or the lever can be present on only one side of the handle body. Todisengage the latch mechanism, in typical embodiments, the latch leveris pushed upwards by the user (e.g., by the user's thumb). Within therange of motion of the latch lever, various embodiments comprise aridge, bump, or other protuberance on the handle body, which can be partof the handle body. See ridge 190 in FIG. 1. In certain embodiments, thelever is flush or substantially flush with the body of the handle sowhen it is pushed upwards, it is moved up and over the ridge by forcefrom the user. Additionally, and/or alternatively, the latch lever cancomprise a ball bearing or opposing ridge on its side facing the body ofthe handle, which ball bearing, ridge, or similar protuberance on thelatch lever interacts with the ridge or protuberance on the handle body.Once the latching lever is above the ridge it tends to stay there untilmoved downwards by the user. Movement of the latch lever upwards,rotates latching lever shaft 230 and latch disc 275 (or in someembodiments which disc is rotated by latching lever shaft). Suchrotation pulls on latch cable (or strap, etc.) 610 which pulls latch 260upwards. If the latch is pulled upwards, then even when the trigger issqueezed and moves into the body of the handle, the latch will not beable to extend downwards into recess area 710 in order to latch thejaws.

In uses when the user desires to engage the locking mechanism, latchinglever 140 is not pushed upwards (or is pushed downwards below theridge/protuberance if it the latching lever is above such). Thus, whenthe trigger is squeezed and moves back into the body of the handle,latch 260 (which can be sloped/beveled on the bottom) moves up and intothe body of the handle over area 635. When the trigger is squeezed farenough back, the latch is pushed down into recess 710 by action of latchspring 255. The latch spring pushes against latch plate 700 and the topof the latch. When the latch is moved in position above the latchrecess, the latch spring (e.g., a compression spring) pushes the latchinto the recess where it catches on the interior of the handle cap andthus “locks” the trigger in place. Since the trigger is locked in place,it therefore causes the linkage lever to be locked in place, which inturn causes the cable and/or cable spring to be locked in place, whichcauses the jaw members to be locked in place. To release the lock, userscan move the latching lever upwards. See above.

As stated previously, the locking mechanism can be engaged (when it isswitched “on”) no matter the size of the object being grasped. Forexample, if a small object is to be grasped between the tips/pads of thejaw members or if a large object is to be grasped between the mainbodies of the jaw members so that the jaws are at their widest, the jawscan still be latched. In either instance, the trigger is squeezed untilthe object is grasped. In some embodiments, the amount of triggersqueezing necessary just to grasp the object can be enough to push thetrigger, and hence the latch, back far enough into the handle so thatthe latch is capable of engaging and locking the trigger (if the latchis “on”). However, the current invention also provides that once anobject is grasped (and, thus, the jaws held a certain distance apart),the user can still squeeze the trigger far enough into the handle toengage the latch no matter the size of the object held. This is becausethe cable spring in the tube region will stretch when pressure isapplied to the trigger but the jaw members cannot move. Suchexpansion/stretch, thus, allows the cable to move proximally and thetrigger to be moved far enough into the handle so that the latch isengaged (when it is “on”) no matter the size of the object being held.

While the foregoing invention has been described in some detail forpurposes of clarity and understanding, it will be clear to one skilledin the art from a reading of this disclosure that various changes inform and detail can be made without departing from the true scope of theinvention. For example, all the techniques and apparatus described abovemay be used in various combinations. All publications, patents, patentapplications, or other documents cited in this application areincorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the sameextent as if each individual publication, patent, patent application, orother document were individually indicated to be incorporated byreference for all purposes

1. A pick up device for grasping an object, the device comprising: a) ahead region comprising two opposing angled jaw members, each of whichjaw members comprises a proximal end and a distal end, and each of whichjaw members is operably attached at a pivot point to a jaw baseassembly, thus allowing movement of each jaw member around its pivotpoint; wherein the proximal end of both jaw members operably interactswith a jaw actuator within the jaw base assembly, which jaw actuator isoperably connected to an actuator rod and a jaw actuator spring; b) atube region comprising an elongated hollow tube enclosing a cable springand cable, which cable spring and cable are operably connected to theactuator rod; and, c) a handle region comprising a handle body, a latchmechanism, and a trigger grip having a linkage lever, wherein the cableis operably coupled to the bottom of the linkage lever; whereinsqueezing the trigger causes the linkage lever to extend downwards inthe handle body thus causing the cable and the cable spring to moveproximally in the handle body and in the tube region, which movementcauses the jaw actuator rod and jaw actuator to move proximally, whichin turn, draws in the proximal end of each jaw member, thus causing eachjaw member to move around its pivot point and causing the distal ends ofthe opposing jaw members to move towards one another.
 2. The device ofclaim 1, wherein the jaw members comprise a textured inner surfacelayer.
 3. The device of claim 1, wherein each jaw member comprises a padarea at its proximal tip.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the jawactuator spring exerts pressure against the proximal end of the jawactuator which causes the distal ends of the jaw members to pivot awayfrom each other as the jaw actuator is pushed distally.
 5. The device ofclaim 1, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a spring loaded latchoperably attached to a latch cable that is operably coupled to alatching lever, which latch mechanism when engaged, reversibly locks thetrigger, thereby reversibly locking the jaw members at a desiredposition.
 6. The device of claim 5 wherein expansion of the cable springallows the trigger to be squeezed further in even when the jaw memberscannot move closer together, thus allowing the trigger to move farenough into the handle body so that if the latching lever is set, thespring loaded latch will engage and prevent the jaw members from opening7. The device of claim 1, wherein the movement of the trigger causes amovement of the jaw members over a greater distance than that moved bythe trigger.
 8. The device of claim 1, wherein the handle body comprisesa palm rest area, which palm rest area comprises a thermoplastic rubberand/or thermoplastic elastomer overlay on the handle body.
 9. The deviceof claim 1, wherein the head region can be rotated in relation to thetube region, and secured in one or more orientations.
 10. A method ofgrasping and/or picking up an object, the method comprising: a)situating two opposing angled jaw members of a device around the object,each of which jaw members comprises a proximal end and a distal end, andeach of which jaw members is operably attached at a pivot point to a jawbase assembly, which allows movement of each jaw member around its pivotpoint; wherein the proximal end of both jaw members operably interactswith a jaw actuator within the jaw base assembly, and which jaw actuatoris operably connected to an actuator rod; the device also comprising anelongated hollow tube region, enclosing a cable spring and cable, whichcable spring and cable are operably connected to the actuator rod; thedevice also comprising a handle region comprising a handle body, a latchmechanism, and a trigger grip having a linkage lever, wherein the cableis operably coupled to the bottom of the linkage lever; and, b)squeezing the trigger causing the linkage lever to extend downwards inthe handle body thus causing the cable and cable spring to moveproximally, and causing the jaw actuator rod and jaw actuator to moveproximally, and in turn, drawing in the proximal end of each jaw member,thus causing each jaw member to move around its pivot point and causingthe distal ends of the opposing jaw members to move towards one anotherand thus grasp and/or pick up the object.
 11. A method of grasping anobject, the method comprising situating two opposing jaw members of adevice around the object, which members are operably attached at pivotpoints to a base assembly and to a jaw actuator; and, squeezing atrigger of the device, which trigger moves a linkage lever and whichlinkage lever is operably coupled to the opposing jaw members; therebymoving the jaw members towards one another and grasping the object.